Murfreesboro, TN October 2023

The Foodie Issue

FOOD + BEVERAGE

MURFREESBORO GLOBAL EATS: EATING AROUND THE WORLD AT HOME

TWIN SISTERS SHARE THEIR FAVORITE SPOOKY TREATS

TRAVEL: A TASTE OF ASHEVILLE LIFE + CULTURE

THE CAFÉ AT THISTLE FARMS AND THE WOMEN WHO ARE SERVING UP INSPIRATION

OCTOBER 2023

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Come for the Stories, Stay for the Food!

With fall comes a deep breath, a cooling, a break from the strains of the summer heat, a tint of yellow on the tall tulip poplars, a gust of wind kissing the skin. Fall is here and people all around are happily preparing for a new season of celebrations. This is the time of year when people remember to come together, to make plans, to bring gifts, and most importantly, to eat together.

Sharing food is the most powerful language on earth, whether it’s a dish prepared at home or splitting an appetizer at a local restaurant. When we sit down to eat together, it is not only our bodies that are nourished, but our minds and souls as well. Breaking bread with others carries with it an unexplainable connection, a divine satiety.

In the “Foodie” issue, we want to share stories with you that will feed the soul. Take a trip around the world without ever having to leave Murfreesboro by enjoying far-away tastes at restaurants nearby. If you’re up for a weekend getaway, consider stopping for a bite in Asheville at some of our favorite spots. Or share a cup of coffee with the women of Thistle Farms and be inspired by their stories of resilience. If nostalgia is what you’re searching for, take a look at some of our favorite spooky treats that will bring you right back to those tasty Halloween memories we all cherish.

Some of my favorite memories center around being with my mother while she showed me the ins and outs of cooking and the gift of feeding people. I've started to encourage my own daughter to explore her taste buds and discover new flavors. She calls herself the "saucier" of our family now that she has learned my recipe for marinara sauce by heart! I love watching her confidence grow each time she makes it.

I hope you feel encouraged to reflect on the foods and the memories that are a source of comfort to you and your family and friends. And I hope you enjoy this delicious issue. Be sure to mark your calendars and take part in events happening around town. There is always something for everyone in our wonderful community. We wish you all a lovely fall, complete with happy hearts and full bellies. Cheers, from our table to yours!

CASSIDY POLMAN, EDITORIAL COORDINATOR @BOROCITYLIFESTYLE Scan QR code to visit our Instagram

October 2023

PUBLISHER

Kimberly Thomas | kimberly.thomas@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Cassidy Polman | cassidy.polman@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Kourtney McComb | kourtney.mccomb@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Karianne Beasley | karianne.beasley@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Lisa Valentine, Courtney Stockton, Justin Beasley, DeAnn Hays, Cassidy Polman, Chasity Clagg, Sofia Delilah, Angela Broockerd

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Kimberlee Brooke Photography, Lisa Valentine, Chasity Clagg, Katelyn Seng, Laura Schneider, Talor Slifko, Janie Jones

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Collins

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

Proverbs 3:5-6

Photography by Christy Wilson Photography

LIBERTY STATION, MURFREESBORO, TN

Control Your Flow.

We believe that:

• The best care starts with listening, not dismissing

• Good health is about more than just your physical health

• You deserve a practical care plan that puts you on a path wellness

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

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1-4, 6: Attendees gathered for live entertainment throughout the night on the grounds of Oaklands Mansion for the annual “Taste of Rutherford” which included tastes from over 25 Murfreesboro restaurants. 5, 7: Sisters Emme Claire and Gracie donate gifts to Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office for children facing trauma.

MAIN STREET MURFREESBORO

RUTHERFORD COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE.

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RUTHERFORD COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE.

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LOCAL COMPANY LOCAL EXPERTISE

business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Tabitha King Assumes Presidency of Tennessee Land Title Association

"Authority Title & Escrow, a leading title and escrow company based in Murfreesboro, TN, is proud to announce that Tabitha King, co-owner and closing agent, has been elected as the president of the Tennessee Land Title Association (TNLTA). This prestigious appointment recognizes King’s exceptional industry knowledge, leadership skills and commitment to customer service.... King will play a crucial role in shaping the state's future of the title industry." - Authority Title & Escrow

NARATIV Adds Three New Team Members

Working to become a leading creative voice in Murfreesboro, NARATIV added 3 new team members to help with client care and strategic growth. Recent work includes projects for Brass Horn Coffee Roasters, Cedar Glade Brews, and Arrington Vineyards. “We’re so grateful for our growth the past month, but we never want that to become more important than providing clients with work that is beautiful and done with excellence,” says Abby Potts, Lead Project Manager. Narativ.design

Amelia’s Closet to hold 2nd Annual Project Restyle Fashion Show and Competition

Amelia’s Closet will hold its second annual fashion show fundraiser, Project Restyle, on Thursday, October 26, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Liberty’s Station, 850 NW Broad Street, Murfreesboro, TN. “We are excited to present this second annual, unique event featuring both a restyling competition and a fashion show,” said Amelia’s Closet’s founding executive director Jody Powers. “Our inaugural event in 2022 was very well received, and we have expanded our footprint and creativity this year.” Ameliascloset.org

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Murfreesboro

Photography Katelyn Seng

Photography Provided by NARATIV

Photography Provided by Amelia’s Closet

OCTOBER 2023

local experiences

The best places and things to do in our area.

Our community is brimming with incredible food and drinks to indulge in and we’ve selected some of our picks that you must experience for yourself. Bon appetit and cheers!

Our Picks for Foods to Feast On

JACK BROWN'S BEER & BURGER JOINT: For a creative twist on an American classic, check out Jack Brown's Burger and Beer Joint on the Square. Good burgers and craft beer served here!  113 North Maple Street, Murfreesboro, TN TN MEAT CO: TN Meat Co offers specialty butchered cuts for local and exotic meats as well as other Tennessee products including cheeses, rubs, ice cream, and more.  2926 Old Fort Pkwy, Murfreesboro, TN

GOODNESS GRACIOUS RESTAURANT & CATERING: From daily comfort food to unique menu selections for your event, Goodness Gracious will deliver dishes that delight your palette on all levels.  1430 Medical Center Pkwy, Murfreesboro, TN

PRIMROSE TABLE: Upscale dining close to home. Primrose Table serves up made-from-scratch recipes with quality ingredients.  1650 Memorial Blvd, Murfreesboro , TN

THE THREE MOTHERS CUISINE & BAKERY: The Three Mother's Cuisine & Bakery is family owned and is considered one of Murfreesboro's best spots for fresh pastries and home-style cooking.  1002 Memorial Blvd, Murfreesboro, TN

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Murfreesboro’s Global Eats

Travel Around the Globe with the Far Aways Tastes of Local Murfreesboro Restaurants

ARTICLE BY LISA VALENTINE PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

If you’re looking to explore the flavors of global cuisine in your own backyard, Murfreesboro City Lifestyle has you covered! Whether you’re in a restaurant rut and want to try something new or craving a cultural experience to learn more about other parts of the world, we’ve compiled a list of some great international dining options here in Murfreesboro!

From the flavors of Mexican and Cuban dishes to the fresh offerings of Greek, Thai and Laotian cuisine to the fragrantly spiced dishes of India, let your tastebuds tour the globe with visits to these Murfreesboro local spots!

Fresh Bites Cuban American Cuisine

WHERE: 451 N Thompson Ln., Murfreesboro, TN 37129

WHAT: Fresh Bite Cuban American Cuisine features an array of Cuban flavors and dishes. Serving traditional Cuban entrees, including ropa vieja dishes, picadillo, their sandwich Cubano, empanadas, and more.  Go for the appetizer Sampler 305 to try a variety of different bites.

CONTACT: freshbiterestaurant.com | 615.546.4444

SaBaiDee Cafe

WHERE: 505 Cason Lane, Ste. E, Murfreesboro, TN 37128

WHAT: SaBaiDee Cafe features authentic Lao and Thai food. Pop in for a Thai green tea, milk tea, or Thai coffee, or sit down for a meal; this cafe offers many options for traditional foods.

CONTACT: sabaideecafe.com | 615.900.3777

Opah Greek Grill

WHERE: 133 James Luscinski Dr. Murfreesboro, TN 37129

WHAT: The perfect place to grab a fresh lunch on the go. Featuring traditional Greek appetizers, such as grape leaves or spanakopita and traditional plates with your choice of meat, salad, pita, and rice or a gyro sandwich with fries or a variety of salads, including Greek, tabouleh, or falafel.

CONTACT: OpahGreekGrill.com | 615.439.6045

Lisa Valentine

Lisa Valentine is a Nashville-based freelance writer, covering an array of topics including music, lifestyle, travel, and outdoor adventures. Valentine also works in TV and event production and began freelance writing while traveling on a six-month, cross-country RV trip. Her love of travel has taken her to 30 countries and 36 states across the U.S.

TOP: Fresh Bites Cuban American Cuisine Photo provided by Fresh Bites Cuban American Cuisine

RIGHT: Opah Greek Grill

LEFT: Sabai Dee Cafe

The Clay Pit

WHERE: 1312 NW Broad St., Murfreesboro, TN, 37129

WHAT: The Clay Pit offers an abundance of Indian fare from clay oven dishes, including Tandoori Chicken, Chicken Tikka, and Boti and Seekh kababs, and many types of lamb, chicken, seafood, goat, and vegetable dishes with sauces that are packed full of flavor. Be sure to dine between 11 am – 3 pm when they offer their buffet and sample a little of everything.

CONTACT theclaypitmurfreeboro.com | 615.904.6262

Mexico Tipico Restaurante y Taqueria

WHERE: 2021 S Church St, Murfreesboro, TN 37130

WHAT: Mexico Tipico Restaurante y Taqueria offers drive-thru and quick-service counter options! Their breakfast menu features a variety of breakfast burritos, omelets, and egg dishes, or come for their tamales, enchiladas, fajitas, a variety of taco options, or many traditional Mexican dishes for lunch or dinner.

CONTACT: MexicoTipicoMX.com | 629.201.5074

Thai Spice

WHERE: 225 North Rutherford Boulevard, Murfreesboro, TN 37130

WHAT: Thai Spice starters include dumplings, fresh summer rolls, spicy papaya salad, and soups. Main courses include different curries, including a pineapple curry with duck and red coconut milk curry. Thai Spice offers milk bubble tea or frozen blended bubble tea in a variety of flavors.

CONTACT: BestThaiSpice.com | 615.895.9757

TOP: The Clay Pit. Photo provided by The Clay Pit BOTTOM: Thai Spice

Around Town Fun in the Fall

OUR FAVORITE PICKS IN AND AROUND MURFREESBORO YOU WILL WANT TO VISIT

ARTICLE BY JUSTIN BEASLEY PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

TN GOLF STATION

Come for the golf and stay for everything else that surrounds it when you enter TN Golf Station, or vice versa. Located at 1276 NW Broad Street, Owner John Paul has created as family-like an atmosphere as you will find around golf. “Everyone knows your name,” Paul, better known as JP, says after a couple of regular visits from new customers. A big reason for that is not only their affordable indoor golf simulators, but also their restaurant and bar area, including live music on Friday nights, event spaces for birthdays or corporate events, and an indoor bay space that includes 30 different games that will surely entertain your children for a full stay. For the golf enthusiast, TN Golf Station sells clubs, balls, and hats, offers professional lessons, and will show you the analytics of your golf swing for those looking to improve.

FOUNTAINS AT GATEWAY

Fountains at Gateway has quickly become a staple in Murfreesboro since arriving on the scene a little more than five years ago. The 31 acres on site include Class A office space, retail, and entertainment as developed by Scott Graby on Medical Center Parkway. Eateries include Burger Republic, Edible Arrangements, Goodness Gracious, Just Love Coffee, Love Thai Sushi, Nothing Bundt Cakes, The Soda Bar, Steakhouse Five, PennePazze, and the newly announced Five Daughters

Photo provided by TN Golf Station

Bakery, all of which surround a splash pad and water fountains that any parent will have trouble pulling their kids away from. This fall, the entertainment lineup is unmatched, with movies playing every Saturday night through the end of October, and live music every Friday night before a Christmas special rounds out the season. What excites everyone the most though, is the ice-skating rink that opens the weekend before Thanksgiving that doesn’t close up shop until February. There is no shortage of fall entertainment at Fountains, trust us.

LUCKY LADD FARMS

Is it really Fall yet if you haven’t visited a local pumpkin patch with friends and family? Well, when you convince your husband to miss a little bit of football on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon, check out Lucky Ladd Farms in Eagleville. Their festival runs from September 16 through October 29 and features 50+ fun attractions for all ages to enjoy including a corn maze, pumpkin picking, and Tennessee’s largest petting zoo.

Photo provided by Lucky Ladd Farms

Photo provided by Fountains at Gateway

Maybe you work here. Or dine here. Or shop here... Now, you can live here!

Introducing Atrium at Fountains - luxury condominiums that are just steps away from all you’ve come to enjoy about Fountains and Gateway Island Park. For more information, visit www.atriumatfountains.com!

Logan Dowd

ARTICLE BY DEANN HAYS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY MTSU

Letisha Bates, far right

Classes Prepare Students for Success

MTSU STUDENTS HAVE UNMATCHED OPPORTUNITIES, EXPERIENCES

With goals and dreams of helping people live their best and healthiest lives, Letisha Bates and Logan Dowd know their education from Middle Tennessee State University's Nutrition and Food Science program will help them succeed in their future careers.

Both majoring in Nutrition and Food Science with a concentration in Dietetics, Bates and Dowd said there was no question MTSU was where they wanted to continue their educations and earn their degrees.

"It just felt like home at MTSU. I knew the people at MTSU would care if I did well and would be there to help me, and that's the kind of environment I wanted for myself,” said Bates, who worked as a nurse for 10 years.

As Nutrition and Food Science majors, Bates and Dowd said their opportunities and experiences in the classroom and labs with their classmates and professors are unmatched.

"My professors and peers are some of the most amazing people I've ever come across,” Dowd said. “My professors are amazing; not only are they teaching me everything we need to know, but they're also applying a lot of life knowledge and wisdom. They make it where you want to be passionate about it, and you fall in love with it."

"All of our courses are truly preparing us not only for our credential but also for what it is going to be like in the real world, what we're going to face and what we're going to encounter," Bates explained.

Bates and Dowd, their professors, and the entire senior Dietetics class will head to Denver in October to attend the Food and Nutrition Conference and Expo, a nationwide conference for nutrition professionals.

“I personally feel that this program has given me a lot of opportunities and a lot of knowledge that I don't think would be found in other programs," Dowd said. "I really do feel like it's going to help me be the best I can be in the future."

Bates and Dowd will graduate in May 2024. Both plan to pursue their master's degrees after graduation and focus their careers on women's health. Dowd also would like to work in higher education at some point in her career.

MTSU offers several concentrations in the Nutrition and Food Science program, including Dietetics, Family and Consumer Science Education, Food Industry, and Nutrition and Wellness.

Satiety and Sanctuary

THE CAFÉ AT THISTLE FARMS IS A ONEOF-A-KIND SOCIAL ENTERPRISE THAT NOURISHES BOTH THE BODY AND SOUL

ARTICLE BY COURTNEY STOCKTON PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

If you were to Google “best lunch in Nashville,” The Café at Thistle Farms would likely top the search results. And there’s good reason for this – the food is outstanding. But unless you were to investigate further you would have no idea that, in addition to being a gourmet food destination, it’s a major force for good within the community. Thistle Farms is a sanctuary, both physically and spiritually, for women to overcome and heal from systems of exploitation. To that end, there are a variety of social enterprises in connection with Thistle Farms, so one might wonder, what makes the café special? Dana Wronski, the Director of the Café and Hospitality, has a few ideas.

Wronski has a wealth of experience in the restaurant industry and was about to open her 20th career restaurant when she was tapped to join Thistle Farms. When asked about the mission and values of the café, she explains that it was designed to be a place for the women in the Thistle Farms program to receive on-the-job training and community. “Today, 10 years later, the café is thriving and bustling. 85% of the employees in the café are in recovery, either having been in our program or another in Nashville.” And facilitating recovery for these women is not something that Thistle Farms just pays lip service to. “We open

Photography by Laura Schneider

late on Mondays so we can hold a weekly ‘Circle’ to give the café team a time of reflection and support,” Wronski shares.

This compassion not only helps to facilitate the healing process, but it also manifests itself in the overall atmosphere of the café. Wronski explains, “The women of Thistle Farms understand hospitality at its very core because at one point in time, all their lives, someone showed them grace. Maybe it was an individual or a group, but someone’s hospitality rescued them.” Because of this, the café has an air of warmth and openness that is palpable. “This deep level of hospitality is unlike anything I have seen in my career. You can literally feel it when you walk in. This beautiful grace and hospitality is shared not only with each and every guest but also with each other.”

It’s not an overstatement to say that the café has changed the lives of the women of Thistle Farms for the better, and its impact extends far beyond the survivors. On the impact the café has made in the community, Wronski says, “When we explain why we are here and a bit about our history, inevitably there are tears and a guest offering a personal story of addiction, either personally or with a loved one. Instantly, a deep connection is made, and the experience is elevated beyond imagination. For other regular guests, the café serves as an oasis of healing. A place to recharge batteries and glean some of the spirit that is in this place while sipping tea or a latte. They are comforted by our food and bring friends to share in the experience. The café is an entry point for people to smell, touch, feel, hear, taste, and experience our very beautiful and unique community first-hand.” The Café at Thistle Farms is a standout for a variety of reasons. And though the food is spectacular, it’s the least exceptional thing about it.

“The café is an entry point for people to smell, touch, feel, hear, taste, and experience our very beautiful and unique community first-hand.”

Photography by Talor Slifko

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS INSTALLATION IS AS EASY AS 1-2-3!

Deck The Halls Christmas Lights Sets the Standard for Christmas Lights Installation in Rutherford County

How early is too early to be thinking about decorating your house for Christmas? Some people jump on board with the whole "Christmas in July" theme, and that same crowd probably has all of their decorations up long before celebrating Thanksgiving. But how early should you think about putting up Christmas lighting? Well, apparently July is too late. Koby

Younce, Co-Owner of Deck The Halls, a full-service professional exterior Christmas lighting company, remembers hearing that over the phone while trying to schedule an appointment to have a company professionally install Christmas lighting. “I was like, ‘Oh, wow,’" Younce said, “There might be something to this.” And that’s how Deck The Halls Christmas Lights, which services all of Rutherford County and surrounding areas with commercial and residential installation, was born in November of 2022. “We’re surprised at how busy we were and how much a response there was,” Austin Moncivaez, Co-Owner of Deck The Halls, said. In 2022, their workforce, outside of the administration work from Younce and Moncivaez, was two labor workers. This upcoming season they’ve added two more personnel with the potential of an additional two or three more. “We’ve already well surpassed what we did last year just in our July (sale special) this year.”

So how does the process work? It’s pretty straightforward. To set up a free estimate, simply call 615-552-0362, or fill out their online form at deckthehallschristmaslights.com.

“The cool thing is every year after that first year that they continue to use our service they don’t have pay to for those materials anymore because they already have them,” Moncivaez said. “So, their cost drops significantly. …We’re a fraction of the cost of our competitors.”

Moncivaez will then work quickly, within 24-36 hours, to generate a quote after he has his measurements. Depending upon the homeowner's preferences, such as colors and what part of the exterior to decorate, they will then exchange ideas to make sure you’re happy and become the envy of the neighborhood. What separates Deck The Halls Christmas Lights from most of the competition is that the homeowner keeps the lights. “The cost of the materials is built into their package,” Moncivaez said. “They pay for those up front. We do supply them.” Included in the cost is the setup of a smart timer so you can power on/off lights and set up a schedule from your smartphone via a Wi-Fi connection. Post-installation consultation is also included to make sure the homeowner is comfortable using everything. Deck The Halls specializes not only in installation but take-down in January which includes a storage container. “The cool thing is every year after that first year that they continue to use our service they don’t have to pay for those materials anymore, because they already have them,” Moncivaez said. “So, their cost drops significantly. … We’re a fraction of the cost of our competitors.”

The time period to begin hanging the lights is late October to early November. Crews usually arrive between 8-10 a.m., and it takes between 2-6 hours to complete the job. With the increasing population in Middle Tennessee, specifically, Rutherford County, both Moncivaez and Younce don’t think they’re “even close to scratching the surface in capability” of how many houses will want Christmas lights installed professionally in the future. Regardless of the workload, it’s important to know that customer interaction will always be a priority at Deck The Halls. It’s another way they want to set themselves apart from everyone else. As Moncivaez explains, “It has that good, small, family-run company feel.”

One might venture to Asheville to explore the iconic Biltmore Estate which is a notable staple to the area. What some may not have discovered is the abundant culture of food that Asheville has developed over the decades. Within the dynamic community of the west side of the Carolinas, lie some lovely gems. In 2022 Asheville’s “must know” food scene earned the city the No. 1 ranking on the “Small Town, Big Flavors: 2022 Foodie Cities” List. Let us take you on a little food and beverage tour of Asheville, North Carolina. With under a four-hour drive, this is an easy fall weekend getaway adventure for you and your tastebuds.

1. Cúrate – The wine list alone will blow you away but wait until you taste their Tapas. Experience the essence of Spain housed in a 1920s bus depot. Listed as one of America’s 50 Wine Restaurants We Love in 2021 by Wine Enthusiast magazine. Cúrate means “cure yourself” in Spanish believing there are curative effects in sharing good food and wine with family and friends.

TRAVEL:

ASHEVILLE EATS

Dive Into One of the Carolina’s Most Delicious Cities

ARTICLE BY SOFIA DELILAH PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIMBERLEE BROOKE & CO.

2. Posana Restaurant – A contemporary American restaurant in the heart of Downtown Asheville on Historic Pack Square, Posana was founded on the desire to nurture the well-being of their staff, customers, and community. They offer a seasonal menu that showcases local ingredients.

3. Chestnut – Since 2012, Chestnut has been making a gustatory impression on Downtown Asheville. Two friends who joined forces and never looked back created the perfect marriage of ambiance with great food and a fun atmosphere. Changing their dinner menu monthly keeps locals on their toes and travelers delighted.

4. Oyster House Brewing Co. – One thing that may surprise travelers about Asheville is they’re known for the best Oysters in America. Oyster House is a hidden gem on the west side of Asheville. Buried in the arts and culture that the region has to offer, Oyster House has a delicious, varied menu including some vegetarian options as well as wonderfully handcrafted brews.

5. Biltmore Winery – Since 1985 The Biltmore Estate has been offering their guests an on-site winery experience located on the North side of the estate. Surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery you will find in Asheville, you can enjoy their complimentary tastings as well as their indoor/outdoor wine bar that includes Charcuterie and locally made truffles.

“PEOPLE WHO LOVE TO EAT ARE ALWAYS THE BEST PEOPLE.” -JULIA CHILD

Photography by Kimberlee Brooke Photography

Spooky Treats

Growing up, Halloween was a big deal at our house. The decorations, the costumes, the classic movies, it never disappointed and always delivered. Now that my sister and I are grown and have children of our own, we want Halloween to be just as exciting and special for our kiddos as it was for us. One of the Halloween traditions that always seems to stand out above the rest is making treats! Spooky, gooey, fizzy, silly treats that only come to our table once a year. I remember getting to help make some of the fun goodies and be a part of the mess and the laughter. And we encourage our kids to join in the fun now, too!

My sister and I grew up in a big and very busy family. So, if we were going to make a fun Halloween dessert- tasty,

simple, and “kid-friendly” was the name of the game. Like using apples, nut butter, and almonds to create “monster mouths”, or fudge-stripe cookies with kisses and icing to put together little “witch hats”. Of course, nothing seemed to beat a nice cup of “witch’s brew” made with sherbet, juice, and soda. It doesn’t take much to have fun with these treats and the best part is, you can make them your own with your favorite sweets! Now we want to take a page from our repertoire of spooky treats and share one of our favorite recipes that our mother always made sure to have available for us to devour during what I like to think is the best part of the year. Enjoy!

ARTICLE BY CASSIDY POLMAN AND CHASITY CLAGG | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHASITY CLAGG

TWIN SISTERS SHARE A TASTE OF THEIR SWEETEST HALLOWEEN MEMORIES

Graveyard Cups

Graveyard Cups  Treats to Try:

Serves 6-8. Refrigerate any leftovers.

Ingredients :

• 1 package of chocolate sandwich cookies

• 1 3.9 oz package of instant chocolate pudding mix

• 2 cups of cold milk

• 1 8 oz container of thawed whipped topping

• 6-8 small shortbread cookies

Monster Mouths

• Decorating gel

• Gummy worms, candy corn (or decorative candies of your choice)

Directions:

1. Place chocolate sandwich cookies in gallon-size storage bag and crush into “dirt” size pieces.

2. In a large bowl, mix milk and instant pudding powder and let stand (about 5 minutes or as pudding directions indicate).

Witch Hats

3. Stir whipped topping into pudding mixture.

4. In 6-8 cups or small bowls start with a layer of pudding mixture followed by a thick layer of “dirt.” Top with another layer of pudding mixture. *Feel free to sprinkle more dirt on top if you wish!

5. Use decorating gel to draw RIP on the back of each shortbread cookie and place cookie inside each cup as a “gravestone”. Use gummy worms, candy corn or other candies to decorate your graveyard cup and enjoy!

Witch’s Brew

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

Haunted Murfreesboro

105 NORTH MAPLE STREET

Tour the streets of downtown Murfreesboro, Tennessee. Hear the hidden stories and learn about the ghosts that still haunt these streets. Book a tour and get ready for an adventure. Hauntedmurfreesborol.com

Main Street Murfreesboro Saturday Market

ON THE SQUARE, DOWNTOWN MURFREESBORO | 8:00 AM

Each Saturday, find locally grown produce, locally raised beef, poultry, and pork, fresh eggs, and baked goods from local bakers. There are also local artisans, crafters and musicians! Hours: 8:00AM - 12:00PM mainstreetmurfreesboro.org

Handmade Market

301 N SPRING STREET, MURFREESBORO | 8:30 AM

Quinn's Mercantile will host this fall's outdoor Handmade Marketplace. The makers and creative businesses who attend are awesome and they make the market such an amazing and fun event! Hours: 8:30AM - 1:00PM quinnsmercantile.com

Barfield Baptist's 3rd Annual Fall Festival

550 VETERANS PKWY, MURFREESBORO | 10:00 AM

Join the fun at Barfield Baptist Church as they host their 3rd Fall Festival filled with hand-crafted vendors, food trucks, inflatables, petting zoo, hayrides, games, prizes, face painting, photo booths, and more! Hours: 10:00AM - 5:00PM barfieldbaptist.org

When purchasing a home, whether it is the first or the fifth, every buyer/seller wants a smooth secure closing. Tri Star Title & Escrow, LLC is dedicated to making sure that your most important asset is thoroughly protected from start to finish. We have made it our mission to provide the best service with a quick response time.

OCTOBER 20TH

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Murfreesboro

Pinnacle Church Hosts Stars and Stripes Event Ahead of 2024 Launch

333 N LOWRY STREET, SMYRNA, TN 37167 | 6:00 PM

Join Pinnacle Church at Stars and Strikes Family Center in Smyrna. There will be pizza, and a chance to play in the arcade! Learn more about Pinnacle Church, meet the team and ask any questions you may have. "We exist to be a catalyst for God to do what only He can."- pinnaclechurch.us

OCTOBER 21ST

Music in the Vines

ARRINGTON VINEYARDS 6211 PATTON RD, ARRINGTON, TN | 3:00 PM

Enjoy the sounds of Live Jazz on the Hillside Stage featuring: Art For Sale Band as well as Live Bluegrass at the Barn featuring: Down River Collective. Hours: 3:00PM - 7:00PM arringtonvineyards.com

THE FLAVOR OF FALL

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Apples are the trademark fruit of fall, and with the many varieties to choose from, there is an apple that is sure to please any palate. They can be included in both sweet and savory dishes and are delicious and incredibly healthful. We all have heard the saying, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” While they aren’t a cure-all, apples are packed full of polyphenols, antioxidants, vitamin C, B vitamins and fiber. Make the most of autumn’s best produce and the flavors of fall with this simple recipe.

APPLE GALETTE WITH CARAMEL DRIZZLE

Easier than pie but with all the same textures, this gooey warm dessert is sure to please. For simplicity, this can be made with a premade crust.

INGREDIENTS:

Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups flour

• 1/4 cup sugar

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 stick cold unsalted butter, cubed

• 1/4 cup iced cold water

Filling:

• 2 apples, peeled and sliced into thin slices

• 1/4 cup packed dark brown sugar

• 1 1/2 tablespoons flour

• 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• Caramel sauce

• Optional: 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

INSTRUCTIONS:

Crust:

(Note: If running short on time, store bought crust works great, too.)

Mix flour, salt and sugar together in a bowl. Cut in the butter. Add water and mix until moistened. Lightly knead the dough and then form into a ball. Next, flatten dough into a thick circular form and refrigerate for one hour.

Filling: Mix the apples, flour, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg and brown sugar together in a bowl.

Assemble and Bake: Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll the dough into a circle and set on parchment paper. Arrange apples in center of dough, leaving about one inch of space for the edges. Fold crust over the apples and press to seal edges. Drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle with pecans or walnuts. Bake for 35 minutes. Serve with caramel sauce and ice cream.

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PREPARE FOR CAREERS IN NUTRITION AND FOOD SCIENCE

MTSU’s Nutrition and Food Science major teaches students to apply the science of human nutrition and the art of food preparation to improve the health of their clients. The major offers four options:

• Dietetics: An ACEND* accredited program that serves as the first step required to become a registered dietitian.

• Family and Consumer Sciences Community Education: Work as a Family and Consumer Sciences or 4-H agent with a county extension office.

• Food Industry: Work for food processors, government agencies, and non-government organizations.

• Nutrition and Wellness: Work with people of all ages and backgrounds to select healthy foods.

*Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics